This chemical is primarily utilized in the field of medicinal chemistry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of biologically active compounds. It is particularly significant in the development of pharmaceuticals targeting neurological disorders, owing to its structural properties that allow it to interact with specific receptors in the brain. Researchers often employ it in the creation of potential drug candidates for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other central nervous system-related ailments. Additionally, its chiral nature makes it valuable in the study of enantioselective reactions, which are crucial for producing more effective and safer drugs with fewer side effects.